Lake Jackson outlines $11M drainage project plans during CIP workshop

The Clute City Council held a budget workshop on July 12, 2025, focusing on critical infrastructure improvements and funding allocations for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting addressed various agenda items, primarily centered around the city’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and public works projects.

The workshop began with a discussion on the city’s aging infrastructure, highlighting that over 50 miles of sewer lines have surpassed their expected lifespan. Council members emphasized the need for improvements in street signage, sidewalks, and street lighting. To tackle these issues, the city has divided its infrastructure into 12 CIP sections, aiming to standardize street designs across the community.

Key projects outlined included the reconditioning of Lakeleton Road, which is projected to cost $1.5 million. This project will standardize the road width to 35 feet and include necessary drainage improvements. Additionally, $900,000 has been allocated for enhancements to Kyle West, which will also feature a standardized paving width and sidewalk installation.

The council also discussed the GLO Hazbin projects, which involve significant drainage system upgrades, including the Flat Lake and Muddy Drainage Systems. These improvements are essential to manage stormwater effectively and prevent flooding in the area. The city has received $11 million in GLO funding for these projects, although rising costs due to inflation have necessitated adjustments to the original plans.

Further discussions included the need for remediation at City Hall, with a proposed investment of $350,000 for facility upgrades, including an ADA-compliant front door. The council also reviewed the public works enterprise fund, which includes $1.1 million for the Bumpy Road lift station and improvements to the Emerald and Bridal subdivisions.

The meeting concluded with a review of anticipated revenues and expenditures for the upcoming year. The council expects to see an increase in sales tax revenue and is planning for a 7.5% increase in water rates to address rising operational costs. The council is also considering a tiered rate structure for different user types to alleviate financial pressure on residential customers.

Overall, the workshop underscored the city’s commitment to addressing infrastructure needs while navigating budget constraints and rising costs. The council plans to continue refining its budget and project priorities in the coming months.